Packing for Every Season in the Rocky Mountains

SEASONS

Spring (March – May) – Expect some snowy and wet conditions on and off with sunny days. Layers will be your friend.

Summer (June – September) – The days can be hot (25-30 °C), especially in July and August, but it can snow as late as June. The nights will be cool as well at higher elevations so pack for anything.

Fall (September – November) – The days will be pleasant for outdoor activities but you’ll need to dress warm in October and November to actually enjoy them.

Winter (November – March) – What to pack will mostly depend on your planned activities. You’ll need warm layers and outerwear either way, but packing will differ greatly if you’re there to ski or only apres-ski.

Year-round essentials

T-shirts – basic tees and tanks to wear on their own or layer, short and long-sleeve

Jeans – a pair of light and/or dark denim to wear around town

Leggings – for physical activities, layering, or comfy days

Loungewear – a sweatsuit or knit set for travel days and cozy mornings/nights at home

Jacket – in the summer, pack something light like a windbreaker or corduroy; the rest of the year, you’ll want a puffer or parka

Bathing Suit – for potential hot springs, pool, hot tub, or swimming in the glacial lakes

Spring

Warm outerwear – light puffer coat or insulated jacket

Sweaters – knit sweaters are perfect under a jacket for wandering around during the day

Trench coat – casual for daytime or dress it up for evenings out

Waterproof shoes – rubber boots, winter boots, or hiking shoes, as you’ll likely be dealing with some slushy days

Summer

Activewear – biker or athletic shorts, skort

Shorts – Denim and/or a fabric pair such as linen or cotton

Dress – optional, depending on style but a sundress or casual long dress could be worn boppin’ around town or out for dinner

Light jacket – windbreaker, corduroy

Button up – linen or poplin button-ups are perfect for a light layer

Sneakers – you’ll be walking around quite a bit, even if you’re doing nothing strenuous, so you’ll want a pair of sneakers or runners to be comfortable

Sandal or Flat – for nights out and casual days on patios

Hiking Shoe – if doing lots of hiking, you’ll want to bring some, otherwise you can get away with sneakers

Fall

Nice sweaters – knit or wool sweaters to dress up or down

Teddy Sweater – a zip-up teddy or sherpa sweater is comfy, cute, and warm, making it perfect for this time of year

Wool Coat – a short or long wool coat is nice for shopping or wearing out for meals

Sneakers/Runners – for walking around and activities

Ankle Boots – something a little taller and warmer, like Blundstones and potentially a pair that’s a little dressier, such as leather boots with a kitten heel.